Introducing Lingo by Abbott
Introduced in 2024, Lingo by Abbott is a continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) system aimed at adults aged 18 and over who do not use insulin and are interested in proactive health and wellness. Lingo tracks glucose levels constantly to show how lifestyle factors affect the body, distinguishing it from diabetes management tools like the prescription-only FreeStyle Libre. Its over-the-counter availability expands access to this technology.
The Science Behind the Lingo System
Lingo utilizes technology similar to Abbott's FreeStyle Libre system. It comprises a wearable biosensor and an iPhone app.
- The Biosensor: A small, sterile sensor worn on the upper arm with a thin filament that measures glucose in interstitial fluid for up to 14 days. It streams data to the user's phone via Bluetooth.
- The App: The Lingo app processes glucose data to offer personalized insights. Features include a real-time glucose graph, a unique "Lingo Count" for quantifying spikes, and logging for meals and exercise. It helps users identify patterns in their glucose responses.
Key Features of the Lingo Experience
Lingo is a wellness tool designed to encourage healthier habits, providing real-time data on glucose levels. It includes a proprietary "Lingo Count" for understanding glucose spikes and provides personalized coaching and science-backed challenges within the app. It also integrates with Apple Health for activity logging.
Lingo vs. Other Continuous Glucose Monitors
Lingo can be compared to other CGMs like Dexcom's Stelo and Abbott's FreeStyle Libre. A comparison of features can be seen in the table below. For a full breakdown, please refer to the {Link: Amazon listing https://www.amazon.com/Lingo-Continuous-Glucose-biosensor-Designed/dp/B0DRVD8TH8}:
| Feature | Lingo by Abbott | Stelo by Dexcom | FreeStyle Libre (Abbott) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Availability | Over-the-counter | Over-the-counter | Prescription only in the U.S. |
| Intended Users | Wellness users without diabetes | Non-insulin dependent adults, includes some with diabetes | People with diagnosed diabetes |
| Sensor Duration | Up to 14 days | Up to 15 days | Up to 14 days, depends on model |
| Primary Goal | Understand and optimize metabolic health | Monitor blood sugar patterns | Manage diabetes |
Benefits for Health and Wellness
Maintaining stable glucose levels offers several health advantages for non-diabetic individuals. Using Lingo to minimize glucose spikes may lead to:
- Increased Energy: More consistent energy levels throughout the day.
- Improved Focus: Better mental clarity.
- Better Sleep: Improvements in sleep quality and duration.
- Weight Management: Making informed dietary choices that support weight goals.
For more information on the science behind Lingo, visit the official website: https://www.hellolingo.com/the-science.
Conclusion: Is Lingo the Right Tool for You?
Lingo by Abbott provides a data-driven approach to health monitoring for the general public, offering insights into personal metabolic responses. It is not for diagnosing or treating medical conditions like diabetes, but serves as a tool to understand the link between lifestyle and wellness. For individuals aiming to improve energy, focus, sleep, and metabolic health, Lingo can be a valuable tool, provided they use a compatible iPhone. Its benefits are maximized by utilizing the real-time data and coaching features to establish healthy habits.
